An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, attached to the "Seahawks" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 126, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). The Precision Approach Landing Capability integration effort for the E-2D improves carrier landings in challenging conditions.
PALC increases safety, precision to E-2D carrier landings
The U.S. Navy awarded a $33 million contract March 4 to Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation for the E-2D Precision Approach Landing Capability (PALC) into the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.
PALC is an advanced system of systems that seamlessly leverages radar-based navigation inputs and onboard technologies to enhance aircraft approach and precision landing. This integration effort improves E-2D carrier landings even in the most challenging environments, such as adverse weather, low-visibility and nighttime operations. This represents a significant upgrade to the E-2D's current landing system.
The E-2/C-2 Airborne Command and Control Systems Program Office (PMA-231), in close collaboration with the Naval Air Traffic Management Systems Program Office (PMA-213) and industry partners is integrating this critical capability into the E-2D fleet. PMA-231’s mission is to architect and deliver world-class E-2 aircraft and combat systems that provide airborne command and control from the sea to detect, decide and communicate.